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Published on: May 23, 2018
Three-dimensional lattice-Boltzmann model of van der Waals fluids
A N Kalarakis1, V N Burganos, A C Payatakes
1Institute of Chemical Engineering and High Temperature Chemical Processes, Foundation for Research and Technology (ICE/HT-FORTH), Hellas, Greece.
Summary
A novel lattice-Boltzmann model simulates nonideal fluid behavior, accurately predicting droplet equilibrium and dynamics. This method enhances understanding of fluid interfaces and wettability in complex systems.
Area of Science:
- Computational fluid dynamics
- Thermodynamics of nonideal fluids
- Interfacial phenomena
Background:
- Simulating nonideal fluids requires accurate models for thermodynamics and interfacial behavior.
- Existing lattice-Boltzmann models may not fully capture nonideal fluid properties under static and flow conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a three-dimensional lattice-Boltzmann model for simulating nonideal fluids.
- To incorporate van der Waals thermodynamics and explicit interfacial stress into hydrodynamic equations.
- To validate the model's accuracy in predicting droplet equilibrium and dynamic processes.
Main Methods:
- Developed a 3D lattice-Boltzmann model using van der Waals formulation for quasilocal thermodynamics.
- Explicitly included the interfacial stress tensor for nonideal fluids in hydrodynamic equations.
- Restored Galilean invariance through pressure tensor manipulation and applied to D3Q15 lattice.
Main Results:
- The model accurately satisfies Laplace and Gibbs-Thomson equations, validated by droplet equilibrium simulations.
- Simulations of spinodal decomposition and droplet coalescence show characteristic times proportional to viscosity.
- Demonstrated wettability adjustment via chemical potential profiling for droplet formation simulations.
Conclusions:
- The developed lattice-Boltzmann model provides a robust framework for simulating nonideal fluids.
- The model accurately captures interfacial phenomena and thermodynamic behavior of nonideal fluids.
- The methodology offers flexibility for application to various 3D lattices and complex fluid-wall interactions.
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